U.S. patent number 8,958,157 [Application Number 13/867,846] was granted by the patent office on 2015-02-17 for daylighting tube segment connection systems and methods.
This patent grant is currently assigned to Solatube International, Inc.. The grantee listed for this patent is Solatube International, Inc.. Invention is credited to Thomas P. Griego, David Windsor Rillie, Jeffrey S. Robertson.
United States Patent |
8,958,157 |
Rillie , et al. |
February 17, 2015 |
Daylighting tube segment connection systems and methods
Abstract
Certain disclosed embodiments provide internally-reflective tube
assemblies for use in a tubular daylighting device configured to
direct daylight into an interior of a building when installed on a
roof of the building. A tube assembly may include multiple tube
segments including connection projections, such as hook-type
structures, for weaving or otherwise connecting and/or securing
tube segments together. In some embodiments, sidewalls of tube
segments connected together are substantially parallel to one
another at or near the connection region.
Inventors: |
Rillie; David Windsor (San
Marcos, CA), Griego; Thomas P. (Encinitas, CA),
Robertson; Jeffrey S. (Solana Beach, CA) |
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Solatube International, Inc. |
Vista |
CA |
US |
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Assignee: |
Solatube International, Inc.
(Vista, CA)
|
Family
ID: |
51526031 |
Appl.
No.: |
13/867,846 |
Filed: |
April 22, 2013 |
Prior Publication Data
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Document
Identifier |
Publication Date |
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US 20140268347 A1 |
Sep 18, 2014 |
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Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
Issue Date |
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61782755 |
Mar 14, 2013 |
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Current U.S.
Class: |
359/593;
359/597 |
Current CPC
Class: |
F21S
11/007 (20130101); E04D 13/03 (20130101); E04D
2013/0345 (20130101); Y10T 29/49826 (20150115) |
Current International
Class: |
G02B
27/00 (20060101); F21S 11/00 (20060101) |
Field of
Search: |
;359/592-593,597 |
References Cited
[Referenced By]
U.S. Patent Documents
Foreign Patent Documents
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201090939 |
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101493205 |
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2 400 885 |
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Oct 2007 |
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GB |
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60142413 |
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Sep 1985 |
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JP |
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60164704 |
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JP |
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60166906 |
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Nov 1985 |
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H08 7619 |
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Jan 1996 |
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JP |
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2002 138634 |
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May 2002 |
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JP |
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2006-228663 |
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Aug 2006 |
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JP |
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10-2009-0113435 |
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Nov 2009 |
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KR |
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WO 2009-110283 |
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Sep 2009 |
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WO |
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Other References
Dulley, James, "Today's Technology and You; Skylight tube solves
lighting problems", Illinois Country Living, Apr. 2000. cited by
applicant .
Sunportal, The most innovative building integrated daylighting
system, brochure received on Sep. 22, 2011. cited by
applicant.
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Primary Examiner: Mahoney; Christ
Attorney, Agent or Firm: Knobbe, Martens, Olson & Bear,
LLP
Claims
What is claimed is:
1. An internally-reflective tube assembly for use in a tubular
daylighting device configured to illuminate an interior space of a
building with natural daylight received through a roof-mounted
daylight collector, the tube assembly comprising: a first
internally-reflective tube segment comprising: a first lower end;
first intermittently positioned projections, wherein the first
projections extend from the first lower end and are spaced around a
perimeter of the first lower end; a first upper end that is closer
to a daylight collector of a tubular daylighting device than the
first lower end when the first tube segment is positioned to
receive daylight from the daylight collector of the tubular
daylighting device; and a first tube segment sidewall extending
between the first lower end and the first upper end, wherein the
first tube sidewall has an interior surface having luminous
reflectance greater than or equal to about 98% when measured with
respect to CIE Illuminant D.sub.65; and a second
internally-reflective tube segment comprising: a second upper end;
second intermittently positioned projections, wherein the second
projections extend from the second upper end and are spaced around
a perimeter of the second upper end such that the second
projections are capable of being woven together with the first
projections; a second lower end that is further from the daylight
collector of the tubular daylighting device than the second upper
end when the second tube segment is positioned to receive daylight
from the daylight collector of the tubular daylighting device; and
a second tube segment sidewall extending between the second lower
end and the second upper end, wherein the second tube sidewall has
an interior surface having luminous reflectance greater than or
equal to about 98% when measured with respect to CIE Illuminant
D.sub.65; wherein the first tube segment sidewall and the second
tube segment sidewall are substantially parallel when the first
projections and the second projections are woven together.
2. The tube assembly of claim 1, further comprising a tensioning
assembly configured to be applied around a woven connection
junction between the first and second tube segments.
3. The tube assembly of claim 2, wherein the tensioning assembly
comprises a belt portion and a latch portion.
4. The tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the first projections
comprise hooks configured to interlock with corresponding hooks of
the second projections.
5. The tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the first projections and
second projections are configured to be weaved together at least
partially through vertical placement of the first tube segment on
the second tube segment.
6. The tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the first projections and
second projections are configured to be weaved together at least
partially through rotational movement of the first tube segment
with respect to the second tube segment about a longitudinal axis
of the tube assembly when the first lower end is touching the
second upper end.
7. The tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the first lower end
includes a first perimeter edge having a first surface generally
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the first tube segment and
the second upper end includes a second perimeter edge having a
second surface generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of
the second tube segment, wherein at least a portion of the first
surface is substantially flush with at least a portion of the
second surface when the first and second projections are woven
together.
8. The tube assembly of claim 1, wherein the first tube segment and
the second tube segment have sidewalls that at least partially
overlap and that are not tapered when the first tube segment and
the second tube segment are connected together.
9. A method of manufacturing an internally-reflective tube assembly
for use in a tubular daylighting device, the method comprising:
forming one or more sheets of at least partially flexible rigid
material; cutting a first tube segment form out of tube sidewall
sheet material having first top, bottom, left and right edges,
wherein the first tube segment form comprises one or more first
projections along the first bottom edge; cutting a second tube
segment form out of tube sidewall sheet material having second top,
bottom, left and right edges, wherein the second tube segment form
comprises one or more second projections along the second top edge;
wherein the first tube segment is configured to attach to a
roof-mounted daylight collector of the tubular daylighting device;
wherein the first projections and the second projections are
configured to be woven together when the first and second tube
segments are bent into a tubular shape; and wherein the first and
second tube segment forms have right-edge-to-left-edge dimensions
that are substantially equal and uniform over
top-edge-to-bottom-edge dimensions of the first and second tube
segment forms.
10. The method of claim 9, wherein the first projections comprise
hooks.
11. The method of claim 9, further comprising forming a belt
configured to be wrapped around a connection junction between the
first and second tube segments when the first and second tube
segment forms are bent into a tubular shape and connected to each
other.
12. The method of claim 11, wherein the belt and the first and
second tube segment forms are made of the same material.
13. The method of claim 12, further comprising connecting a
tensioning latch assembly configured to securely friction fit the
belt around the connection junction.
14. A method of installing an internally-reflective tube assembly
in a building having a roof-mounted daylight collector, the method
comprising: positioning a first lower end of a first tube segment
such that first lower end touches a second upper end of a second
tube segment, wherein the first and second tube segments have a
substantially uniform width through a longitudinal height of both
tube segments, and wherein the first and second tube segments are
positioned to receive daylight from the roof-mounted daylight
collector; and connecting the first and second tube segments at
least in part by weaving first projections of the first tube
segment with second projections of the second tube segment;
wherein, when connected, sidewalls of the first and second tube
segments are substantially parallel.
15. The method of claim 14, wherein the first and second tube
segments are generally cylindrical.
16. The method of claim 14, further comprising wrapping a belt
around the tube assembly and operating a tensioning member
configured to create a secure friction fit between the belt and the
sidewalls of the first and second tube segments.
17. The method of claim 14, further comprising: positioning an
upper end of the first tube segment to receive daylight through the
roof-mounted daylight collector; and connecting the upper end to
the daylight collector.
18. The method of claim 14, further comprising connecting the
second tube segment to a light diffuser positioned inside of the
building.
19. The method of claim 14, further comprising disposing the tube
assembly between a ceiling and roof of a building structure,
wherein daylight is permitted to pass from a region exterior to the
building to an interior target area through the tube assembly.
20. The method of claim 14, wherein weaving the first and second
projections together includes deflecting the first or second
projections radially inward or outward.
Description
INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE TO ANY PRIORITY APPLICATIONS
Any and all applications for which a foreign or domestic priority
claim is identified in the Application Data Sheet as filed with the
present application are hereby incorporated by reference under 37
CFR 1.57.
BACKGROUND
1. Field
This disclosure relates to tubular daylighting systems and
methods.
2. Description of Related Art
Daylighting systems typically include windows, openings, and/or
surfaces that provide natural light to the interior of a building.
Examples of daylighting systems include skylights and tubular
daylighting device installations. Various devices and methods exist
for connecting tube segments of a daylighting device together.
Certain currently known tubular daylighting systems and methods
suffer from various drawbacks.
SUMMARY
In some embodiments, an internally-reflective tube assembly for use
in a tubular daylighting device is configured to illuminate an
interior space of a building with natural daylight received through
a roof-mounted daylight collector. The tube assembly can include a
first internally-reflective tube segment. The first tube segment
can include a first lower end; first intermittently positioned
projections, wherein the first projections extend from the first
lower end and are spaced around a perimeter of the first lower end;
a first upper end that is closer to a daylight collector of a
tubular daylighting device than the first lower end when the first
tube segment is positioned to receive daylight from the daylight
collector of the tubular daylighting device; and a first tube
segment sidewall extending between the first lower end and the
first upper end, wherein the first tube sidewall has an interior
surface having luminous reflectance greater than or equal to about
98% when measured with respect to CIE Illuminant D.sub.65.
The tube assembly can include a second internally-reflective tube
segment. The second tube segment can include a second upper end and
second intermittently positioned projections. The second
projections can extend from the second upper end and can be spaced
around a perimeter of the second upper end such that the second
projections are capable of being woven together with the first
projections. A second lower end can be further from the daylight
collector of the tubular daylighting device than the second upper
end when the second tube segment is positioned to receive daylight
from the daylight collector of the tubular daylighting device. A
second tube segment sidewall can extend between the second lower
end and the second upper end, wherein the second tube sidewall has
an interior surface having luminous reflectance greater than or
equal to about 98% when measured with respect to CIE Illuminant
D.sub.65. The first tube segment sidewall and the second tube
segment sidewall can be substantially parallel when the first
projections and the second projections are woven together.
The tube assembly can include a tensioning assembly configured to
be applied around a woven connection junction between the first and
second tube segments. The tensioning assembly can include a belt
portion and a latch portion.
In a tube assembly, the first projections can include hooks
configured to interlock with corresponding hooks of the second
projections. The first projections and second projections can be
configured to be weaved together at least partially through
vertical placement of the first tube segment on the second tube
segment.
In a tube assembly, the first projections and second projections
can be configured to be weaved together at least partially through
rotational movement of the first tube segment with respect to the
second tube segment about a longitudinal axis of the tube assembly
when the first lower end is touching the second upper end.
In a tube assembly, the first lower end includes a first perimeter
edge having a first surface generally perpendicular to a
longitudinal axis of the first tube segment and the second upper
end includes a second perimeter edge having a second surface
generally perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the second tube
segment, wherein at least a portion of the first surface is
substantially flush with at least a portion of the second surface
when the first and second projections are woven together.
Some embodiments provide a method of manufacturing an
internally-reflective tube assembly for use in a tubular
daylighting device. The method can include forming one or more
sheets of at least partially flexible rigid material; and cutting a
first tube segment form out of tube sidewall sheet material having
first top, bottom, left and right edges. The first tube segment
form can include one or more first projections along the first
bottom edge. A second tube segment form can be cut out of tube
sidewall sheet material having second top, bottom, left and right
edges. The second tube segment form can include one or more second
projections along the second top edge. The first projections and
the second projections are configured to be woven together when the
first and second tube segments are bent into a tubular shape.
The first and second tube segment forms have
right-edge-to-left-edge dimensions that are substantially equal and
uniform over top-edge-to-bottom-edge dimensions of the first and
second tube segment forms.
The first projections can include hooks and a belt configured to be
wrapped around a connection junction between the first and second
tube segments when the first and second tube segment forms are bent
into a tubular shape and connected to each other. The belt and the
first and second tube segment forms can be made of the same
material.
The method of claim 11 a tensioning latch assembly can be
configured to securely friction fit the belt around the connection
junction.
In certain embodiments, a method of installing an
internally-reflective tube assembly in a building having a
roof-mounted daylight collector is provided. The method can include
positioning a first lower end of a first tube segment such that
first lower end touches a second upper end of a second tube
segment. The first and second tube segments can have a
substantially uniform width through a longitudinal height of both
tube segments. The first and second tube segments can be connected
at least in part by weaving first projections of the first tube
segment with second projections of the second tube segment. When
connected, sidewalls of the first and second tube segments can be
substantially parallel.
In some embodiments, the first and second tube segments are
generally cylindrical. The method can include wrapping a belt
around the tube assembly and operating a tensioning member
configured to create a secure friction fit between the belt and the
sidewalls of the first and second tube segments.
In certain embodiments, an upper end of the first tube segment is
positioned to receive daylight through the roof-mounted daylight
collector; and the upper end is connected to the daylight
collector.
In some embodiments, the second tube segment is connected to a
light diffuser positioned inside of the building. The tube assembly
can be disposed between a ceiling and roof of a building structure,
wherein daylight is permitted to pass from a region exterior to the
building to an interior target area through the tube assembly.
Weaving the first and second projections together can include
deflecting the first or second projections radially inward or
outward.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
Various embodiments are depicted in the accompanying drawings for
illustrative purposes, and should in no way be interpreted as
limiting the scope of the inventions. In addition, various features
of different disclosed embodiments can be combined to form
additional embodiments, which are part of this disclosure. Any
feature or structure can be removed or omitted. Throughout the
drawings, reference numbers can be reused to indicate
correspondence between reference elements.
FIG. 1 illustrates a block diagram representing an embodiment of a
daylighting device.
FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments of nested tube
assemblies.
FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram representing an embodiment of a
daylighting device.
FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram representing an embodiment of a
daylighting device.
FIG. 5 illustrates a tube assembly in accordance with one or more
embodiments disclosed herein.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an attachment belt
assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed
herein.
FIG. 7 illustrates an up-close view of the fastener portion of the
belt assembly of FIG. 6 in accordance with one or more embodiments
disclosed herein.
FIG. 8 illustrates an up-close view of a fastener portion of the
belt assembly of FIG. 6 in accordance with one or more embodiments
disclosed herein.
FIG. 9 illustrates a tube assembly in accordance with one or more
embodiments disclosed herein.
FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate close-up views of hooks of a tube
assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed
herein.
FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a tube
segment in accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed
herein.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a process for
installing a segmented daylighting tube.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a process for
manufacturing a daylighting tube segment.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF CERTAIN EMBODIMENTS
Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed herein,
inventive subject matter extends beyond the examples in the
specifically disclosed embodiments to other alternative embodiments
and/or uses, and to modifications and equivalents thereof. Thus,
the scope of the claims appended hereto is not limited by any of
the particular embodiments described below. For example, in any
method or process disclosed herein, the acts or operations of the
method or process can be performed in any suitable sequence and are
not necessarily limited to any particular disclosed sequence.
Various operations can be described as multiple discrete operations
in a manner or order that can be helpful in understanding certain
embodiments; however, the order of description should not be
construed to imply that these operations are order-dependent.
Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described
herein can be embodied as integrated components or as separate
components. For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain
aspects and advantages of these embodiments are described. Not
necessarily all such aspects or advantages are achieved by any
particular embodiment. Thus, for example, various embodiments can
be carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage
or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily
achieving other aspects or advantages as can be taught or suggested
herein.
Tubular daylighting devices (TDD) are designed to capture sunlight
from the roof or other exterior portion of a building or structure
and channel the light into a target area of the structure, such as
an interior room, for providing illumination during daylight hours.
In certain embodiments, a TDD includes one or more of the following
components: a clear dome disposed on the roof or exterior structure
that allows sun to enter therein, but at least partially isolates
the target area or interior of the structure or TDD from weather
and debris; reflective tubing that channels the light generally
downward toward the target area (e.g., an interior ceiling); and a
diffuser structure at or near the base of the tube and/or ceiling
of the structure interior to promote distribution of the light
within the target area. In certain TDD assemblies and/or
configurations, the reflective tubing comprises a plurality of
tubes or tube segments joined or connected to form a pathway
through which light may travel generally in the direction of the
target area.
FIG. 1 depicts a block diagram representing an embodiment of a
passive light-collection and distribution device 100 for providing
daylight to a target area of a building or other structure. The
device may at least partially incorporate some of the features
described above, including segmented tubing for channeling light
between the exterior 101 of the structure and the target area 102
within the structure. As shown in FIG. 1, the daylighting device
100 includes a light collector 110 which is exposed, either
directly or indirectly to a source of light, such as the Sun. Light
enters the light collector 110 through an at least partially
transparent cover portion and propagates into segmented reflective
tubing (120, 125) that spans a region separating the collector 110
from the diffuser 140. The terms "tube" and "tubing" are used
herein according to their broad and ordinary meaning and may
include substantially hollow structures having a circular,
rectangular, elliptical, or other cross-sectional shape, wherein
light may propagate within the hollow interior of the structure.
"Tubing" may include any suitable structure or assembly configured
to provide a channel, or pathway, between the light collector 110
and a light-aligning structure, or diffuser 140. Furthermore, "tube
segment" may refer to a unitary tube structure, or a segment or
portion thereof. The interior surface of the tubing (120, 125) is
at least partially reflective. In some embodiments, at least a
portion of the interior surface of the tube 120 is specularly
reflective. Walls and/or surfaces of the tubing (120, 125) can be
planar, curved and/or otherwise shaped.
In certain embodiments, an auxiliary lighting system (not shown)
can be installed in the daylighting device 100 within the tubing
portion (120, 125) to provide light from the tube to the targeted
area when daylight is not available in sufficient quantity to
provide a desired level of interior lighting.
In the illustrated embodiment, the tubing portion of the
daylighting device 100 includes a first tube segment 120 and a
second tube segment 125. In certain embodiments, the tube segments
120 and 125 have substantially similar physical dimensions and/or
characteristics. The tube segment 120 may include a length
dimension, designated in FIG. 1 by the reference "l." For example,
the length dimension of the tube segment 120 may extend along a
longitudinal axis of the tube segment, and can be a distance
parallel with an axis of the tube segment. In an embodiment in
which the tube segment 120 is positioned in a substantially
vertical alignment, the distance l may represent the height of the
tube segment 120. In certain embodiments, the tube segment 120
and/or tube segment 125 have a length l of approximately one to
four feet, or longer.
The tube segment 120 may have a width dimension, w, less than
approximately 40 inches. For example, the width w can be
approximately 10 to 28 inches. The distance w may represent a
diameter of a cylindrically-shaped tube or tube segment. In certain
embodiments, the tube segment 125 has similar length and/or width
dimensions to those of tube segment 120.
Although two tube segments are depicted in FIG. 1, the number of
tube segments take make up the tubing portion of the daylighting
device 100 can be greater or less than that illustrated. The tubing
of the daylighting device 100 may span a distance d between the
exterior surface portion (e.g., roof) 118 and the interior surface
portion (e.g., ceiling) 114. In certain embodiments, the distance d
can be between about three and twelve feet. Therefore, depending
possibly on the length of the tube segments used, the interior
tubing of the daylighting device 100 may comprise three or more
tube segments, wherein the tube segments are connected serially in
some manner to span the relevant distance.
Certain embodiments of daylighting devices include a light-aligning
structure, or collimator, disposed and configured such that light
that would otherwise enter the diffuser 140 at undesirable angles
is turned to a more desirable angle. When the daylighting device
100 is installed, the tube segment 125 can be physically connected
to, or disposed in proximity to, a collimator, which is configured
to turn light propagating through the daylighting device such that,
when light exits the daylighting device 100 and/or enters the
diffuser 140, the light has increased alignment characteristics, as
compared to a device without a collimator. A collimator can be
integrated, for example, with the lower tube segment 125, or
attached thereto, and may have a shape of a hollow frustum, wherein
the width or diameter of the collimator at its base is greater than
the width or diameter of the tube segment with which it is
associated. For example, in certain embodiments, a collimator helps
ensure that light passing through the daylighting device will exit
the daylighting device at an exit angle of less than or equal to
about 45 degrees from vertical, or at a substantially vertical
orientation, when the diffuser 140 is in a horizontal arrangement.
In this manner, a collimator may reduce or eliminate glare and
visibility issues that light exiting a lighting fixture between
those angles can cause.
The diffuser 140 can be configured to spread light from the tube
into the room, or target area, in which it is situated. The
diffuser 140 can be configured to distribute or disperse the light
generally throughout the target area. Various diffuser designs are
possible. In certain embodiments, the diffuser 140 is secured to
connected to the tubing of the daylighting device 100, such as to
the tube segment 125. Though the embodiment depicted in FIG. 1 is
described with reference to one or more features or components,
certain of the described features or components can be omitted in
certain embodiments. Furthermore, additional features or components
not described can be included in certain embodiments in accordance
with the device shown in FIG. 1.
In embodiments utilizing tubing comprising a plurality of separate
tube segments, it can be necessary or desirable to secure, attach,
or otherwise connect the tube segments together to form an at least
partially integrated tubing assembly. One mechanism for connecting
tubes or tube segments involves nesting at least a portion of one
tube or tube segment into a corresponding portion of another tube
or tube segment. FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate embodiments of nested
tube assemblies. As shown in the illustrated embodiments, tube
segments (e.g., 220A, 225A) may include tapered end portions,
wherein an end of a first tube segment having a relatively smaller
opening is inserted at least partially into an end of a second tube
segment having a relatively larger opening. In certain embodiments,
the distance of overlap joint of the tube segments is approximately
2 inches, for example. Relatively short, or shallow, overlap joints
may help minimize materials costs related to tube overlap. In
certain embodiments, the tube segments comprise aluminum sheeting,
wherein sheet metal screws are used to physically connect the two
tubes or tube segments together. The screws, or other tube segment
connecting members may cause the walls of the tube segments to be
brought together somewhat to improve the connection. Furthermore, a
tape, such as an aluminized adhesive backed tape, can be installed
at least partially over the exterior joint around the tube
perimeter to provide sealing for the joint.
In some embodiments, a tubular daylighting system includes multiple
tube segments but does not have a nested tubing configuration, such
as, for example, the configurations illustrated in FIGS. 2A and 2B.
For example, if the taper is configured such that the larger
opening faces generally upward and the smaller diameter generally
faces downward, as shown in FIG. 2A, the geometry of the tube walls
may cause the elevation angle from horizontal of the daylight to
decrease when it reflects off the interior walls of the assembly,
resulting in larger number of reflections. In the overlap
configuration of the tube assembly shown in FIG. 2A, the interior
portion of the assembly faces generally downward. In such
configurations, the taper of the lower portion of the tube segment
220A introduces anti-collimating effects into the system. For
example, when light propagates through the tube assembly of FIG. 2A
in a generally downward direction, as indicated by the dashed
arrow, the tapered tube sidewall can cause light incident on the
interior surface of the tube in the tapered region to be bent away
from a direction parallel to the central axis of the tube. The
anti-collimating effect of the taper shown in FIG. 2A can create
relatively more reflections as light propagates through the tube
assembly than in a tube assembly having substantially vertical
sidewalls.
FIG. 2B illustrates a tubing assembly having an upward-facing tube
taper (e.g., with the smaller diameter facing up and larger
diameter facing down). With respect to the overlap configuration
shown in FIG. 2B, wherein the interior portion of the overlap
assembly generally faces upward, the overlapping portion may
introduce a gap into which light propagating downward through the
assembly can be directed, thereby reducing the light transfer
efficiency of the assembly. For example, a tapered joint with an
approximately 2-inch overlap may present a significant air gap
around the tube interior perimeter between the two tube diameters,
as shown. In TDD tubing, sunlight may generally travel down the
tube in a spiral fashion and at least partially concentrated along
the perimeter of the tube, thereby allowing for light to be
captured by a gap or ledge around the perimeter and lost.
The overlapping tube segment configurations illustrated in FIGS. 2A
and 2B can create a reduction in the light transfer efficiency of a
TDD. In addition to the functional drawbacks that can result from
the overlapping configurations depicted in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the
aesthetic appearance of tape on the tube and/or screws piercing the
tube sidewall can be undesirable. For example, certain TDD
applications may not have a ceiling and can be suspended from the
roof to within 10 to 20 feet from the floor. Such assemblies can be
visible to occupants of the structure and therefore the exposed
tape and/or sheet metal screws can be viewable as well.
Additionally, installation of such assemblies, especially with
larger-diameter tubes, may require one person to align and hold the
tube while another person is installing the sheet metal screws.
In some embodiments, a tubular daylighting system includes an
attachment mechanism for joining multiple tube segments that is
economical to manufacture and distribute. For example, reflective
tubing can be a significant cost component of a TDD system. As an
example, certain embodiments comprise a tube length or
approximately 24 inches, and therefore when top and bottom portions
of the tube are overlapped by, for example, 2 inches, more than 8%
of the tube area can be dedicated to the overlap joint. While the
increased overlap distance can provide added rigidity to portions
of the tubing assembly, the overlap can also introduce costs.
Similar issues can be encountered in joining together air ducts for
heating, ventilation, and air conditioning installations, among
possibly other applications. Therefore, certain aspects of the
present disclosure can be relevant to applications beyond
daylighting, such as heating, air conditioning, ventilation,
ductwork, fluid conduits, and the like. For example, undesired
airflow restrictions or turbulence can be introduced into such
systems as a result of duct segment overlapping.
In some embodiments, a tubular daylighting system includes tube
segments joined or connected together within a daylighting
assembly, wherein the tube segments do not have tapered and/or
substantially overlapping regions. In certain embodiments, a
tubular daylighting system includes tube segments that have tapered
and/or substantially overlapping regions and one or more other
features described herein.
FIG. 3 illustrates a block diagram representing an embodiment of a
daylighting device 300. The daylighting device 300 includes a
daylighting assembly comprising a first internally-reflective tube
segment 320 and a second internally-reflective tube segment 325.
Certain embodiments disclosed herein utilize non-tapered, or
substantially non-tapered, tubes with substantially parallel sides.
In such assemblies, the diameter or width of a tube segment can be
substantially uniform over a length of the tube segment. For
example, the tube segment 320 and tube segment 325 may have
diameters that are substantially equal at least in regions where
the two tube segments are configured to come together to form a
tube assembly. In certain embodiments, the diameter of the tube
segments is designed to align with the collector and/or diffuser
component to at least partially prevent, substantially reduce, or
eliminate decollimation of light, as described above.
The daylighting device 300 may include a connection assembly 350
configured to facilitate connection of the illustrated tube
segments to one another. The connection assembly 350 may comprise
one or more structures or members configured to secure the tube
segments together, which may comprise structures integrated with
the tube segments, non-integrated structures, or a combination of
integrated and non-integrated features. The connection assembly 350
can be disposed at or near the junction between the first and
second tube segments.
FIG. 4 illustrates a block diagram representing an embodiment of a
daylighting device including a connection assembly 450 having one
or more hook/connection systems associated therewith. The TDD 400
may comprise a proximal side generally proximal to a collector
member and representing an upper side or region of the TDD when
installed in a generally vertical configuration. The TDD 400 may
further comprise a distal region generally distal to the
collector/proximal region. A tube assembly may generally extend
between the proximal and distal regions of the TDD 400.
The TDD 400 may include connection assemblies at top and/or bottom
regions of tube segments connected between the collector and
diffuser. In certain embodiments, the hook systems 424A and 424B
are integrated with the first and second tube segments (420, 425),
respectively. For example, the hook system 424A can include one or
more hook or notch-shaped projections or cutouts of the tube
segment 420. In certain embodiments, the hook system 424A is
configured to be joined or weaved with a corresponding hook or hook
system 424B associated with the tube segment 425. The terms "hook"
and "hook system" are used herein according to their broad and
ordinary meaning and may include latching assemblies, or any
structure configured to provide a catch for another structure.
Although FIG. 4 depicts two hook systems, the connection assembly
450 may include any number of hook systems, structures, or other
connection members. The number of connection structures selected
may affect the efficacy of the connection assembly. For example,
increased numbers of hooks may produce increased stability and/or
rigidity of the connection between the tube segments. However,
increased numbers of hook or other connection structures may
increase manufacturing and/or assembly complexity. In certain
embodiments, the hook systems include hooks disposed around the
perimeter of the tube segments at one or more ends. Hooks that may
be associated with the hook systems 424A, 424B are described in
greater detail below. In certain embodiments, the connection
assembly 450 provides for the connection of the tube segments
without requiring tape and/or screws. Certain embodiments, the
connection assembly is configured to secure the tube segments
together using one or more hook/connection structures, as well as
one or more other connection mechanisms, such as tape, screws, or
clamps.
Hooks can be formed in the wall of the tube segments. For example,
the hooks may comprise cut-out notches in the top and/or bottom of
the tubes. The notches can be spaced around the perimeter of the
tube. In certain embodiments, the hooks are configured to be weaved
together. For example, notches disposed at the edge of one tube can
be weaved through the notches of another tube in a manner to
provide an approximate alignment of the walls of the two tube
segments. In certain embodiments, the connection assembly 450
includes adhesive tape in addition to the hooks.
Certain embodiments disclosed herein provide a mechanical belt that
is configured to be wrapped around the perimeter of the tube
assembly, such as at the joint region between the tube segments.
The belt may provide additional support and/or rigidity to the
joint of the tube assembly. With the tube segments positioned flush
against one another at their edges, the connection assembly can be
substantially void of air gaps at the junction. Without substantial
overlap of tube segments, the belt can be desirable to provide
increased support to the junction. In addition, or alternatively,
embodiments disclosed herein may incorporate various types and
forms of staggered slots, adhesives, tapes, sleeves, connective
elements, or a combination of elements that provide the connection
and/or securing functionality described herein.
In embodiments not requiring tapered tube overlap and/or screws for
attachment purposes, the need for tools/drills and/or supplies
(e.g., screws and tape) during installation can be reduced or
eliminated, thereby potentially reducing installation cost and
preparation/staging time. Furthermore, the embodiment of FIG. 4 may
require less man power for installation than alternative systems,
and may reduce complexity of assembly. In certain embodiments,
assembly can be performed by a single person, whereas in other
embodiments, two or more people can be required.
The tube segments 420, 425 may be of substantially uniform
construction, wherein the tube segments may be interchangeably
connected in upper and lower positions. For example, a tube segment
may comprise hook systems at both proximal and distal ends of the
segment, wherein the proximal and distal hook systems are
configured to be woven together, or mate, with each other such that
substantially identical tube segments may be woven together or
otherwise connected, wherein the proximal end of a first of the
tube segments corresponds to the distal end of a second of the tube
segments. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, the proximal and
distal hook systems are substantially identical, such that ends of
the tube segments may be joined together indiscriminately with
respect to segment end.
Hook assemblies may also be configured to be connected with
diffuser and/or collector members. Alternatively, tube segments
configured to be connected directly with a diffuser or collector
member may be designed specifically for such connection, wherein
the relevant connection assembly differs in some respect from tube
segment-to-tube segment connections. In certain embodiments, a tube
assembly comprises a first tube segment configured to be connected
directly to a collector member, a second tube segment configured to
be connected directly to a diffuser member, as well as one or more
intermediate tube segments configured to be disposed and connected
between two other tube segments.
In certain embodiments, multiple tube segments may be cut from a
single sheet of metal or other material, wherein hooks or other
connection structures of opposing tube segments fit together in at
least partially tessellated configuration. When negative space
exists between opposing connection structures, such space may be
cut-out or otherwise removed from the sheet.
FIG. 5 illustrates a perspective view of a tube assembly in
accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed herein. For
example, the illustrated tube assembly 500 can be a representation
of the tubing assembly illustrated in FIG. 4 and described above.
The tube assembly includes a first tube segment 520 and a second
tube segment 525 disposed in a stacked configuration with the first
tube segment 520 positioned above and in physical contact with the
second tube segment 525. The tube segments depicted have a
substantially uniform diameter, such that the walls of the tube
segments are at least partially aligned when placed in a stacked
configuration.
The tube assembly of FIG. 5 further includes a mechanical belt
member 551 wrapped around at least a portion of the tube assembly.
In certain embodiments, the belt 551 provides support to the tube
assembly and promotes secure connection between the first and
second tube segments. The belt 551 can be secured tightly enough
around the perimeter of the tube assembly that it serves to draw
the sidewalls of the tube segments together at the junction between
the two tube segments.
In certain embodiments, the diameters of the tube segments do not
taper substantially, such that the tube segments comprise a
substantially uniform diameter/width over the length of the tubing,
or a portion thereof. The tube assembly 500 can be secured without
adhesive and/or screws. In certain embodiments, the tube segments
comprise substantially parallel sidewalls at least in a region
proximate to the junction between the tube segments. The tube
assembly can include a collimating portion or assembly (not shown)
having a non-uniform diameter with respect to the diameter of the
tube segments at the junction between them.
In certain embodiments, the belt assembly 551, when fastened, does
not substantially compress or indent the walls of the tube segments
520, 525 or cause substantial distortion or deformation therein.
The belt assembly 551 can be held in position by surface friction
forces between the belt and the sidewall of the tubing.
Furthermore, adhesive can be utilized to assist in securing the
belt in position. In certain embodiments, the sidewalls of the two
tube segments are brought together to form a substantially
continuous interior surface in at least portions of the interior
surface of the tubing over the junction between the two
segments.
In the tubing assembly 500 of FIG. 5, one or more of the tube
segments may comprise a highly-reflective interior surface (not
shown). For example, an interior tube surface may be substantially
specularly reflective. Furthermore, the tubing interior may provide
luminous reflectance of greater than approximately 90%, such as
greater than approximately 98%, or even 99%, when measured
according to CIE Standard Illuminant D.sub.65.
FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an attachment belt
assembly 651 in accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed
herein. The belt assembly 651 can be similar to the belt assembly
551 illustrated in FIG. 5. The belt assembly 651 may include a body
portion 652 configured to be wrapped or positioned around the
perimeter of a tube assembly at a junction region between two tube
segments. The belt assembly 651 may further include a latch or
fastening portion 655, which includes portions of both ends of the
belt assembly, wherein portions of both ends of the belt are
brought together and fastened in some manner in order to secure the
belt assembly in an at least partially closed loop.
The body and/or fastener portions of the belt assembly 651 may
comprise metal, such as aluminum, plastic, paper, or other
material. In certain embodiments, the belt body is at least
partially rigid. Furthermore, the belt body 652 can be at least
partially flexible, such that it can be shaped around a tube
assembly and fit substantially flush against the outer walls of the
assembly. The fastener portion 655 can be adjustable for achieving
a desirable amount of tightness when in a fastened configuration
around the tube assembly. While the embodiment shown in FIG. 6 can
be particularly suited to be secured around a tube assembly having
a substantially circular or elliptical cross-sectional shape, in
certain embodiments, the belt assembly 651 can be configured to be
wrapped around other shapes, such as rectangular tube assemblies.
For example, the belt body 652 may include one or more bends,
creases, or hinges, such that the belt can be fitted against angled
tube regions, or can be malleable enough such that bends/creases
can be formed therein through the application of manual force.
FIG. 7 illustrates an up-close view of the fastener portion of the
belt assembly of FIG. 5 in accordance with one or more embodiments
disclosed herein. The fastener 755 may comprise a tensioning bar
756 configured to connect a first end portion 701 of the belt with
a second end portion 702. The tensioning bar 765 can be removably
attached to one or more of the ends, wherein the bar can be
manually removed from one or more of the ends. For example, as
shown, the bar can be removably attached to the first end 701,
wherein pin portions 759 of the bar are configured to fit within
corresponding receptacles in the first end portion 701, or in a
structure 757 secured thereto. Pressure applied to a certain
portion or portions of the tensioning bar 756 may allow for the
withdrawal of the pin(s) from the receiving holes. In certain
embodiments, the tensioning bar 756 is secured in such a manner
that it may not be easily removed without deforming the bar and/or
other connection structures associated with the fastener 755. In an
alternative embodiment, the fastener 755 includes a latch that is
configured to hook and unhook from one end of the belt.
The belt fastener 755 is depicted in FIG. 7 in an open, or
unlocked, position. In such a configuration, the diameter presented
by the belt when wrapped around a tube assembly may not be fixed,
wherein the end portions of the belt may move relative to one
another within a certain range of movement without substantial
restriction imposed on such movement by the fastener assembly 756.
Such range of movement may allow for the end portion(s) of the belt
to be brought into a closed, or locked, position as illustrated in
further detail below with respect to FIG. 8.
The fastener 755 may include a secure adjustment member 757 that
can be adjustably repositioned in order to provide a desirable
degree of tightness when in a closed position. For example, as
shown, the adjustment member may comprise a rigid structure 757
having mating projections (not shown) projecting from the structure
757 that can be secured to corresponding female receptacles in the
first end portion 701 of the belt. Alternatively, the end portion
701 of the belt may comprise one or more male projection members
configured to be received in corresponding female receptacles in
the adjustment member 757. In certain embodiments, the adjustment
member can be manually detached and/or repositioned with respect to
the end portion 701 of the belt. In certain embodiments, the
adjustment member is a fixed structure, wherein adjustable tension
is achieved through latching a tension member onto one of a
plurality distributed latch hooks and/or holes.
FIG. 8 illustrates an up-close view of a fastener portion of the
belt assembly of FIG. 5 in accordance with one or more embodiments
disclosed herein. The tensioning bar 756 has been pulled into a
closed, secured position. A bend or other feature 759 in the
tensioning bar 756 may exert force on the distal portion of the
tensioning bar and end portion 702 of the belt such that the
fastener can be maintained in the closed position without manual
force being applied thereto. Friction and/or other forces may also
serve to secure the fastener in the closed position. In certain
embodiments, force applied to the tensioning bar and/or end portion
702 radially outward from the axis of the tube assembly and/or in a
backward direction may cause the fastener to be returned to an open
position, or partially open position. For example, such force may
cause the tensioning bar to rotate counter-clockwise, or otherwise,
about a secure connection point until the fastener assumes an open
position, as described above with respect to FIG. 7. In certain
embodiments, when the belt is in a closed position, friction forces
may hold the belt securely such that it does not slide
substantially against the surface of the tube assembly without
significant rotational force being applied thereto.
As described above, certain embodiments may provide for tube
assemblies comprising tube segments connected together by weaving
the perimeter of a tube inside and outside of a corresponding tube
perimeter through, for example, j-shaped notches on the end of the
tube segments. Each tube may have alternating notches around the
perimeter that are configured to slide into the corresponding
j-notches of the corresponding tube segment that are facing the
opposite direction.
The notches and hooks can be designed to hold the tubes together
without using screws or adhesive tape during the process of
assembling a tubular daylighting device in the field. FIG. 9
illustrates a tube assembly in accordance with one or more
embodiments disclosed herein, wherein tube segments are secured to
one another without a belt assembly fastened thereon. In certain
embodiments, a belt assembly as described herein can be secured
around at least a portion of the junction between the two tube
segments 920, 925 in order to provide added stability and rigidity.
The tube assembly 900 includes tube segments 920, 925 having a
plurality of hook members associated therewith. In certain
embodiments, the hook members 924A and 924B are integrated with the
first and second tube segments (920, 925), respectively. For
example, the hook 924A can be a hook or notch-shaped projection or
cutout of the tube segment 920. In an assembled configuration, the
hooks of the respective tube segments are configured to be joined
or weaved with corresponding hooks (e.g., hooks 924A and 924B)
being linked together. In certain embodiments, the connection
assembly 450 provides for the connection of the tube segments
without requiring tape and/or screws.
In certain embodiments, the walls of the connected tube segments
are configured such that when the hooks are interlocked, the walls
of the upper segment rest on the walls of the lower segment. For
example, the edges of the walls can be substantially flush with one
another, rather than overlapping or providing gaps between, around
the perimeter of the tubing. A belt assembly may help hold the
segments in close proximity in order to reduce the formation of
gaps. In certain embodiments, cutout projections of the edge of the
tube segments can be flexed outward such that they at least
partially overlap with the opposing tube.
The hooks can be configured to provide rotational catch
functionality, wherein once two opposing hooks of connected tube
segments have been woven together, relative rotational movement of
the tube segments is restricted at least in the direction each of
the respective hooks is facing. For example, with respect to the
depicted embodiment shown in FIG. 9, the hook 924B of the upper
tube segment can be said to face in a clockwise direction, wherein
when the two hooks 924A and 924B are connected, such connection
restricts or prevents movement by the upper tube segment 920 in a
clockwise direction. Furthermore, in certain embodiments, tube
segments comprise hooks that face in opposing directions along the
circumference, or perimeter, of the tube segment, such that
combined forces introduced by the opposing hook connections
restricts or prevents relative rotational movement in either
direction between the tube segments. The hook connections may also
restrict or prevent the tube segments from being pulled apart in an
axial direction, or pushed together beyond the range permitted by
the hook notches.
In certain embodiments, the hooks are self-aligning, wherein the
hooks provide a guide for securing the tube segments in a locked
position. Such a configuration may provide simplified installation.
Hooks may be configured to interlock in connection with the
lowering of an upper tube segment onto a lower segment, wherein
relative vertical displacement/movement allows for hooks to become
engaged. In certain embodiments, hooks become engaged at least
partly through radial weaving of the structures. The hooks may bow
or deflect inwardly or outwardly to allow for interweaving of
hooks.
While certain embodiments are described herein in the contest of
hook connection structures, connection assemblies in accordance
with the present disclosure may comprise any suitable or desirable
connection structure. In certain embodiments, tube segment edge
portions weave together in some manner to secure the tube segments
together. For example, tube segment edge portions may radially
overlap with one another, wherein edge portions are configured to
deflect inwardly or outwardly to allow for such radial overlap.
Such deflection may allow for secure mating of tube segments
without substantial vertical nesting. Certain embodiments disclosed
herein provide for woven connection of tube segments, wherein
sidewalls of the tube segments are substantially parallel. In
certain embodiments, edge projections alternatingly deflect
inwardly and/or outwardly. Weaving of tube edge portions may
provide radial stops, or catches, for preventing or reducing radial
and/or longitudinal (or vertical) movement or displacement. As
described above, the tube assembly can include a tensioning
assembly applied around at least a portion of the perimeter of the
tube assembly, such as substantially around the region of the woven
connection.
In certain embodiments, tube segments have connection hooks
associated with both ends of the segment, wherein the tube segment
can be connected to another tube segment at either end, or both.
For example, the tube segment 920 can be configured such that both
ends of the tube present similar hook connection arrangements,
wherein the tube segment can be flipped substantially
indiscriminately and connected and connected to the tube segment
925 in either the flipped or un-flipped position.
While the depicted embodiment of FIG. 9, as well as certain other
embodiments disclosed herein, may be related to tubing having a
generally cylindrical cross-sectional shape, tubing assemblies may
have any suitable or desirable cross-sectional shape, including
possibly irregular shapes and dimensions.
FIGS. 10A and 10B illustrate close-up views of securing members of
a tube assembly in accordance with one or more embodiments
disclosed herein. The hooks can be formed in the wall of the tube
segments. For example, the hooks may comprise cut-out notches in
the top and/or bottom of the tubes. While the cut-out notches are
j-shaped in the illustrated embodiment, such notches can be any
suitable shape (for example, elliptical or rectangular slots for
aligning the tube edge or j-shaped notches for locking the tube
segments in place). The notch and hooks can be formed by cutting
out end portions of metal sheets that are wrapped together to form
tubes or tube segments.
In certain embodiments, the hooks are configured to be weaved
together. For example, notches disposed at the edge of one tube can
be weaved through the notches of another tube in a manner to
provide an approximate alignment of the walls of the two tube
segments. In certain embodiments, the hooks and notches are
configured such that the edges of the adjoined tube segments do not
substantially overlap, with the possible exception of the hook
portions themselves. For example, the extended edge 1027 and the
recessed edge 1029 of the opposing tube segment can be positioned
flush against one another when the tube segments are interlocked.
Such features may provide reduced loss of light compared to
daylighting systems incorporating tapered and overlapped tubes. In
certain embodiments, the extended edge 1027 is permitted to flex
outward slightly to accommodate some amount of overlap of the
extended edge over the recessed edge 1029. When such overlap
exists, a mechanical fastening belt as described above can be
secured over the overlapping edge in order to substantially
eliminate any gaps within the tube that might otherwise be caused
by tube overlap, as discussed above. The thickness of the interior
edge can present a surface substantially perpendicular to the axis
of the tube, wherein light can be reflected or otherwise
misdirected or absorbed by such surface. FIG. 10B shows the hooks
of FIG. 10A in an interlocked arrangement. When the tube segments
are in the interlocked arrangement, a belt assembly can be tightly
coupled to the tube segments by a single person installing the
tubing. As described above, the hook connections may provide
increased rigidity to the tube assembly due, at least in part, to
the overlapped hook portions.
FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of a portion of a tube
segment 1100 in accordance with one or more embodiments disclosed
herein. The edge of the tube segment 1100 has hook and notch
structures associated therewith and positioned around the perimeter
of the tube. In certain embodiments, the hooks are arranged around
the tube perimeter facing in alternating directions. The tube edge
can be at least slightly elevated on one side of a hook relative to
the other side of the hook. Therefore, the alternating
directionality of the hooks may present alternating extended lip
portions 1127 and recessed portion 1129. In certain embodiments,
the tube segment 1100 is designed such that alternating hooks and
projections/recesses in a replica, or substantially similar, tube
segment can be aligned and interlocked with the hooks shown. In
certain embodiments, the two tube segments' inner reflective walls
alternate at a junction portion as the tube segments weave around
the perimeter. The depth of the notch may serve to maintain the
vertical registration of the tube.
The connector structures can be evenly spaced along the tube
perimeter, or may have uneven spacing. In certain embodiments the
circumferential distance between opposite-facing hooks is greater
than the circumferential distance between hooks facing each other,
or vice versa. In certain embodiments, hooks are evenly spaced
approximately 60.degree. apart, as shown. In certain embodiments,
the tube segment 1100 comprises four hooks or other connection
structures evenly spaced about the perimeter of the tube
approximately 90.degree. apart.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a process 1200 for assembling a
segmented daylighting tube. The process 1200 may include forming
and/or joining one or more sheets of material, such as aluminum or
other at least partially flexible material into tube segments. For
example, unassembled tube segments can be shipped or otherwise
transported as substantially flat sheet in order to facilitate
compact transport. At block 1220 of the process 1200, formed tube
segments are aligned connected together by weaving the perimeter of
the tube inside and outside of the tube segments through j-shaped
notches on the end of the tubes, as described above. For example,
tube segments may have alternating notches around the perimeter
that will slide into the other tube's j-notch that is facing the
opposite direction. Interlocking the tube segments as described
herein may provide an approximate alignment of the two tubes walls
such that the tube walls may form a substantially continuous
interior tube surface, thereby promoting light transfer
efficiency.
After the notched tube connections have been completed, a metal
belt is installed around the perimeter at the two-segment junction,
tightened, and/or fastened to provide added stability and to
promote the formation of a substantially continuous reflective
inner tube surface by the two interlocked segments for efficient
light transfer down the tube. The additional caliper of the belt
also provides a more rigid region at the two-segment junction. Such
additional stability can be beneficial, particularly with respect
to large-diameter assemblies and/or assemblies formed primarily of
thin metal sheeting or other thin materials.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a process 1300
for manufacturing a daylighting tube segment for use in one or more
daylighting assemblies described herein. The process 1300 may
include forming rectangular tube segment sheets, such as out of
aluminum or other at least partially flexible material. The sheets
are then cut to form notches and hooks, or other connection
structure integrated with the sheets. At block 1330, a belt band
may formed out of metal or another material capable of exerting
compressive force around the perimeter of the tube segment. The
ends or other portions of the belt can be attached to belt fastener
structure, such as a buckle-type member, tensioning bar or strap,
or the like. The belt may also have perforations or other
structural features. Such features can be used to secure the
fastener structure or otherwise facilitate belt tightening and/or
fastening.
At least some of the embodiments disclosed herein may provide one
or more advantages over existing lighting systems. For example,
certain embodiments effectively allow increased daylight capture
through the use of tubing connections without necessarily requiring
the use of tube tapering, overlap, screws, and/or tape.
Discussion of the various embodiments disclosed herein has
generally followed the embodiments illustrated in the figures.
However, it is contemplated that the particular features,
structures, or characteristics of any embodiments discussed herein
can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more separate
embodiments not expressly illustrated or described. It is
understood that the fixtures disclosed herein can be used in at
least some systems and/or other lighting installations besides
daylighting systems.
In the above description of embodiments, various features are
sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, figure, or
description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure
and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various
inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be
interpreted as reflecting an intention that any claim require more
features than are expressly recited in that claim. Moreover, any
components, features, or steps illustrated and/or described in a
particular embodiment herein can be applied to or used with any
other embodiment(s). Thus, it is intended that the scope of the
inventions herein disclosed should not be limited by the particular
embodiments described above.
* * * * *